A maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist in surgery of the face, mouth and jaws. They treat a wide variety of conditions, from congenital deformities and trauma to temporomandibular joint disorders and wisdom tooth problems.

If you're looking for a maxillofacial surgeon near you, there are several ways to find one. You can start by asking your dentist or primary care physician if they know of any specialists in your area.

Remember and always keep in mind that at ProDent we offer you the best experts, who will help you in every process of your recovery.

It is important to choose a maxillofacial surgeon with the experience and skills to meet your specific needs.

Be sure to ask questions and have the surgeon explain the procedure he or she will perform. You should also review their training and experience in maxillofacial surgery.

Duties of a maxillofacial surgeon

A maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist in surgery of the face, mouth and jaws.

His work encompasses a wide variety of functions, from the treatment of congenital deformities to the management of facial injuries and orthognathic surgery.

Importantly, he is also responsible for a wide variety of functions related to head and neck surgery, including:

✅Treatment of facial injuries and fractures: Maxillofacial surgeons are specialists in the treatment of facial injuries and fractures, such as those that occur in traffic or sports accidents
✅Congenital deformity surgery: The maxillofacial surgeon also treats congenital deformities, such as cleft palate and short lower jaw

✅Orthognathic surgery: Orthognathic surgery is used to correct bite and jaw problems. Maxillofacial surgeons work as a team with orthodontists to plan and perform these procedures

✅Treatment of oral and maxillofacial diseases: Maxillofacial surgeons also treat oral and maxillofacial diseases, such as sleep apnea, oral cancer and oral infections

When to see a maxillofacial surgeon?

If you have a problem related to your head or neck, or if you need treatment for a facial deformity or bite problem, you should see a maxillofacial surgeon. You may also be referred by your dentist or general practitioner.

The most common type of surgery is tooth extraction, which may be due to tooth decay, periodontitis, dental trauma or complications in the development of third molars.

Maxillofacial surgeons also help patients with soft tissue injuries of the mouth, head and neck. They may treat children who are born with or develop deformities of the skull and face, such as cleft palate.

Although if you notice any malformation in the neck, jaw or mouth area, have problems chewing or swallowing, you can make an appointment directly with a maxillofacial surgeon. ¡ProDent helps you in this important process!

What are the differences between a Dentist and a Maxillofacial Surgeon?

Both dentists and maxillofacial surgeons are concerned with oral health, but their roles are different.

While both professionals share some skills and knowledge, there are significant differences between a dentist and a maxillofacial surgeon.

🦷Functions of a dentist in Tijuana

The dentist is responsible for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions affecting the teeth and gums. His functions include:

✅Routine exams and cleanings: The dentist performs routine exams and cleanings to maintain good oral health

✅Caries treatment: Dentists treat cavities and perform fillings and dental reconstructions
✅Treatment of gum disease: Dentists treat gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis

✅Dental extractions: Dentists perform simple tooth extractions

👨‍⚕️Funciones of a dentist maxillofacial surgeon

The maxillofacial surgeon dentist is a specialist who focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of complex problems of the head, mouth and jaws. His functions include:

✅Dental implants: Maxillofacial surgeons place dental implants in patients who have lost one or more teeth

✅Orthognathic surgery: Maxillofacial surgeons perform surgery to correct bite and jaw problems

✅Treatment of facial injuries and fractures: Maxillofacial surgeons treat facial injuries and fractures, such as those that occur in traffic accidents

✅Treatment of oral and maxillofacial diseases: Maxillofacial surgeons also treat oral and maxillofacial diseases, such as sleep apnea and oral cancer

In summary, although both dentists and maxillofacial surgeons are concerned with oral health, the roles and skills of a dentist and a maxillofacial surgeon dentist are different.

If you need treatment for complex problems of the head, mouth and jaws, you should see a maxillofacial surgeon.

If you need routine examinations and cleanings, treatment of cavities and gum disease, you should see a general dentist.

Most common cases that maxillofacial surgeons work on

Maxillofacial surgeons are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of complex problems of the head, mouth and jaws.

Their skills and knowledge enable them to address a wide range of cases, from dental disorders and gum disease to facial injuries and fractures.

Below are some of the most common cases maxillofacial surgeons work on.

Bite Problems

Maxillofacial surgeons treat bite problems that can cause eating and speaking difficulties, as well as headaches and jaw pain.

Some of these problems include jaw over- or undergrowth, open bite and crossbite.

Dental Implants

Maxillofacial surgeons place dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth.

These implants are a durable and effective solution to restore function and esthetics to the mouth.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Surgery

Maxillofacial surgeons treat temporomandibular joint problems, which can cause ear pain, headaches and jaw pain.

TMJ surgery may be necessary in severe cases.

Facial Trauma

Maxillofacial surgeons treat facial injuries and fractures that may occur in traffic accidents, sports or violent situations.

These specialists can repair facial bone fractures and restore the appearance and function of the face.

Oral Cancer

Maxillofacial surgeons also treat oral cancer, which can occur on the tongue, lips, gums or cheeks.

These specialists can remove tumors and affected tissues and reconstruct the mouth and jaw after surgery.

In short, maxillofacial surgeons treat a wide variety of cases ranging from bite problems and dental implants to facial trauma and oral cancer.

If you need treatment for any head, mouth or jaw problem, you should see a maxillofacial surgeon with experience and specialized skills in the area.

Remember that ProDent offers you the best specialists! Make your appointment now and get help from the best maxillofacial surgeons in Tijuana.

What is a maxillofacial surgeon and what are his or her functions? Find out with ProDent